Store Garden Hand Tools: Make a Handmade Toolbox

Cut out the parts and assemble the toolbox

1 of 3

Photo 1: Assemble the basic box

Screw the box together with deck screws. Predrill and countersink the screws to avoid splitting.

2 of 3

Photo 2: Fit the branches

Cut the branch ends to fit. Attach the pieces to the sides of the toolbox with screws or nails. Predrill to avoid splitting.

3 of 3

Photo 3: Tap in dowels

Drill 1/4-in. holes through the handle ends and drive in the dowels to hold the handle in place.

This simple gardening toolbox gets its natural charm from the branches used for the sides and handle. When you’re searching for branches, choose green, freshly cut ones for strength and flexibility. The only tools required are a saw and a drill and maybe a knife to whittle the handle ends.

Along with three 25-in.-long branches, you’ll need a 6-ft. 1x6, a 4-ft. 1x4 and a short length of 1/4-in. wood dowel, exterior wood glue and a handful of 1-5/8-in. deck screws. We used clear pine, but No. 2 pine or cedar will work fine too.

Cut the parts using Figure A as a guide. Then screw the box together (Photo 1). Whittle the handle ends to fit the holes. You’ll have to bend the handle to slip it into the second hole.

Cut away any knobs on the branches for the sides. Then attach them, keeping the screws at least an inch from the ends to avoid splits (Photo 2). Finally, drill 1/4-in. holes through the handle ends and drive in the dowels to hold the handle in place (Photo 3).

Garden toolbox details

Figure A: Garden Toolbox Details

Figure A shows the dimensions of the basic box, but feel free to change the size to fit your own garden tools.